Wow! A stock Integra.
For the entire seven year stint of the last Integra, the only engine that was made available was a DOHC 1.8L 4-cylnder. Well, that is not entirely true. Base LS, GS and SE Integras sported a 142 hp powerplant that could be coupled to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Those that ponyed up more coin could get a GS-R and a V-TEC equipped motor that delivered 170 hp available only with a 5-speed manual.
The few that were even more fortunate could opt for the all-out Type-R complete with a 195 hp screamer. The ultimate Integra had a redline between 8,200 and 8,900 rpm depending on the model-year, a limited-slip differential, larger disc brakes, a firmed up suspension and could only be had with a 5-speed gearbox. All Integras relied on 4-wheel disc brakes and a fully independent suspension.
Drumming around
The Integra, even after six years and 100 000 km, feels as solid as it did the day it left the assembly line. The only flaw I found in the drive of this particular car was the lack of on-centre feel; in a straight line, feedback was somewhat vague and lackadaisical. Engaging the car into a curve proved to be loads of fun, as the tires would grip firmly and direct the nose of the car exactly where I wanted it to go. Brake-pedal feel is good and reassuring with reasonable stopping distances. My favourite amongst the driving factors is the shifter. Its action is swift, precise and gives the impression of being at the helm of a true sports car.
The non-VTEC 1.8L serves the Integra well. It is certainly not blindingly fast but it can hold it own against a Toyota Celica GT for example. If driven a tad aggressively, the engine delivers sufficient torque for some very spirited driving and, if you can hold it a little longer, you will get some horsepower.
Cruising in the city with the Integra is surprisingly comfortable. The suspension is liberal enough to soak up ruts of all types all the while maintaining stability and surefootedness on the highway. My tested Integra showed some signs of age as I could hear and feel some knocking coming from the rear components. These noises most likely originated from some used bushing or sway bar links, both easily and cheaply fixed.
For the entire seven year stint of the last Integra, the only engine that was made available was a DOHC 1.8L 4-cylnder. Well, that is not entirely true. Base LS, GS and SE Integras sported a 142 hp powerplant that could be coupled to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Those that ponyed up more coin could get a GS-R and a V-TEC equipped motor that delivered 170 hp available only with a 5-speed manual.
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The few that were even more fortunate could opt for the all-out Type-R complete with a 195 hp screamer. The ultimate Integra had a redline between 8,200 and 8,900 rpm depending on the model-year, a limited-slip differential, larger disc brakes, a firmed up suspension and could only be had with a 5-speed gearbox. All Integras relied on 4-wheel disc brakes and a fully independent suspension.
Drumming around
The Integra, even after six years and 100 000 km, feels as solid as it did the day it left the assembly line. The only flaw I found in the drive of this particular car was the lack of on-centre feel; in a straight line, feedback was somewhat vague and lackadaisical. Engaging the car into a curve proved to be loads of fun, as the tires would grip firmly and direct the nose of the car exactly where I wanted it to go. Brake-pedal feel is good and reassuring with reasonable stopping distances. My favourite amongst the driving factors is the shifter. Its action is swift, precise and gives the impression of being at the helm of a true sports car.
The non-VTEC 1.8L serves the Integra well. It is certainly not blindingly fast but it can hold it own against a Toyota Celica GT for example. If driven a tad aggressively, the engine delivers sufficient torque for some very spirited driving and, if you can hold it a little longer, you will get some horsepower.
 |
Cruising in the city with the Integra is surprisingly comfortable. The suspension is liberal enough to soak up ruts of all types all the while maintaining stability and surefootedness on the highway. My tested Integra showed some signs of age as I could hear and feel some knocking coming from the rear components. These noises most likely originated from some used bushing or sway bar links, both easily and cheaply fixed.